Adil Hussain

Biography:

Khandkar Mohammad Adil Hussain, pronounced [ʕaːdɪl ħuˈseːn], is a versatile Indian actor celebrated for his impactful performances across various Indian and international film industries. Born on 5th October 1963 in Goalpara, Assam, Hussain hails from an Assamese Muslim family, where his father served as the headmaster of a high secondary school. He is the youngest among seven siblings.

Hussain’s family has a rich heritage, with a lineage of private tutors (khandkar) to emperors. His diverse ancestry includes an Iraqi maternal grandfather and a maternal grandmother with Assamese, English, and Italian roots. Growing up, he displayed a passion for acting and participated in school plays, honing his skills from a young age.

At the age of 18, Hussain left home to pursue a degree in philosophy at B. Borooah College, Guwahati. During his college years, he immersed himself in acting, starring in college plays and exploring stand-up comedy. He gained recognition for his talent and wit, often mimicking popular Bollywood actors as part of the local stand-up comedian group, the Bhaya Mama Group.

Hussain’s journey into professional acting began with stints in local cinema and mobile theatre. His dedication and talent caught the attention of industry professionals, leading him to pursue further training at the prestigious National School of Drama in Delhi from 1990 to 1993. Additionally, he broadened his horizons by studying at the Drama Studio London on a Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship.

Throughout his career, Hussain has showcased remarkable versatility, starring in films across multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Tamil, Marathi, Malayalam, Norwegian, and French. He has garnered critical acclaim for his roles in acclaimed films such as “The Reluctant Fundamentalist” and “Life of Pi” (both 2012), as well as receiving National Film Awards for his performances in “Hotel Salvation” and “Maj Rati Keteki.”

Hussain’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected figure in Indian and international cinema is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for the craft of acting.